Divorces are almost always difficult to navigate, even when amicable. Discussing separating your finances, who gets the house, and where the kids will live often brings up strong emotions, making it nearly impossible to find a satisfactory solution.

Besides working with a divorce lawyer, who can advise you on your rights and ensure you don’t lose out in the divorce, you should also consider divorce mediation. Lyons & Associates, P.C. can advise you before your mediation or represent you if you prefer.

What Is Divorce Mediation and is Mediation Right for Me?

Going to court for your divorce is expensive. Contested divorces can last months, resulting in high legal fees. Most couples wish to avoid going to court, preferring to create an agreement. However, if you and your ex-partner cannot agree on certain topics, like child custody or finances, your divorce lawyer might recommend you consider divorce mediation.

In a divorce mediation meeting, you and your spouse work through the terms of your divorce with your mediator. Unlike in the courtroom, where a judge makes all the final decisions, the mediator merely helps you come to an agreement.

Before your first mediation meeting, schedule an appointment with your divorce lawyer, who can advise you on strategies. If you like, the lawyers at Lyons & Associations, P.C. are also happy to accompany you to your mediator meeting. If you and your ex-spouse have an acrimonious relationship, your lawyers can conduct the mediation for you.

Many clients wonder, is mediation right for me? While every divorce is unique, in most cases, mediation is a prudent course of action. However, if you and your spouse have no children and your marriage was relatively short, you might be able to create a divorce settlement without a mediator. If there was abuse in the marriage, you can try mediation, but only with your lawyer acting as a representative.

If there are children involved, or the marriage was long term, and one spouse is eligible for alimony, a divorce mediator can save you significant amounts of money compared to taking your spouse to court.

Benefits of Mediation

Besides saving you money, divorce mediation also gives you more control over the outcome of your divorce. While your lawyer and your ex’s lawyer can present requests in a courtroom, the final decision comes from the judge.

Because a divorce mediator only facilitates discussion, you and your ex have full control over the eventual divorce settlement. While you may need to compromise on certain things, you will both need to agree on the terms of your divorce, including custody, alimony, asset division, and financial issues. The mediation process also remains confidential, unlike a court case, which becomes public record.

Work With an Experienced Family Law Lawyer

Getting divorced without a lawyer could mean that you receive less alimony than you should or that your partner walks away with most of the marriage assets. At Lyons & Associates, P.C., we have extensive experience with all aspects of family law in New Jersey, from divorces to child custody cases.

Having expert legal support during your divorce can give you a better outcome and help reduce stress during this trying time. Our lawyers handle the legal aspects, allowing you to focus on your emotional wellbeing.

Contact us online or call us at (908) 575-9777 to arrange an initial appointment and determine how our legal team can help you.

• Category: Mediation